Planning the research paper

Key Takeaways. The research writing process generally comprises six steps: choosing a topic, scheduling and planning time for research and writing, conducting research, organizing research and ideas, drafting a paper, and revising and editing the paper.

In a research proposal, you present your main research question, any related subquestions you plan to explore, and your working thesis. Before you start researching your topic, take time to plan your researching and writing schedule. Research projects can take days, weeks, or even months to complete.

It's a good idea to at least think about the order you're going to write your paper. It'll help the flow of writing as well as greatly help when writing your introductory paragraph. Before planning your paper, go over your professor's directions. Some professors are very specific in how they want the paper written.

The research process allows you to gain expertise on a topic of your choice, and the writing process helps you remember what you have learned and understand it on a deeper level. Knowing how to write a good research paper is a valuable skill that will serve you well throughout your career.